Obituaries
Pamela Joan Groner
Pamela Joan Groner, 82, passed away on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at Hope Landing in Charlotte, Michigan. Pamela was born on January 23, 1943 in Battle Creek, Michigan to Ward Edward and Kathryn Elaine (Kelly) Priesman.
On September 30, 1961 Pamela married Arthur “Art” William Groner in Bellevue, Michigan. Sadly, he passed away on August 9, 2025. Pamela attended Michigan State University graduating with her Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing. Many years later she continued her education at Wayne State University earning her Master’s Degree in Nursing.
Pamela was the director of Nursing for the Barry/Eaton County Health Department retiring in 1998 after 20 years of service. To stay active after retiring she worked part time as a nurse at Brookside Surgery Center in Battle Creek for many years. She was a member of Bellevue United Methodist Church and was a member of a fiddler group in Maple Grove, Michigan.
Pamela enjoyed playing the fiddle, cooking pies, especially cherry and apple, quilting and sewing. She loved to go shopping, whether it was garage sales, flea markets or department stores. Pamela also enjoyed reading and Soduko puzzles.
Her grandchildren were everything to her, encouraging and supporting them to learn music and play an instrument and she loved going to their school events.
Pamela is survived by her children: Mark (Kelly Gies) Groner of Grand Ledge, Michigan, Michael Groner of Traverse City, Michigan and Kelly (David) Lowe of Marshall, Michigan: her grandchildren, Ammie Powell of Bellevue, Michigan, Madison Groner of Columbus, Ohio, Katie (Nick) Cooper of Kalamazoo, Michigan and Tyler Groner of Lansing, Michigan; her great grandchildren, Ryder Hill, Reese Cooper and William Cooper. Pamela is also survived by siblings, Pat (Alice) Priesman (Brother) of Vermontville, Michigan, Paula (Wink) Pugh of Charlotte, N. Carolina and Penny Pierce of Bellevue, Michigan. She was preceded in death by her husband Art, her parents, her nephew Van Groner and her brother-in-law, Mark Pierce.
Visitation for Pam will take place on Friday, December 19, 2025 from 11a.m. until noon at Bellevue Methodist Church. with the memorial service to follow at noon. Pastor Ben Palmer officiating.
Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery in Bellevue, Michigan.
Memorial contributions may be directed to the Bellevue Good Samaritan Food Pantry.
Arrangements were entrusted to Kempf’s of Bellevue. Please visit www.kempffuneralhome.com to view the online obituary, to sign the online guest book or to leave the family condolences.
Carol Elaine Emerson
Carol Elaine Emerson, was born on December 6, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan. She passed away peacefully on December 11, 2025, at the age of 89, at The Oaks of Battle Creek, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and dedication that will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Carol was a proud graduate of Olivet High School in 1955. Soon after graduation, she married LaWayne Emerson and they were blessed with 52 happy years together. Carol and LaWayne purchased their first home from their parents for only $100. It may have been an old farm house but with much tender love and care it became a beautiful home. Carol dedicated her life to the art of beauty, serving as a beautician for an impressive 64 years. She found great joy in her career working from home and was especially proud of her time serving at Hope Landing in Charlotte, where her gentle spirit and skilled hands brought comfort and confidence to many. Her career was not just a job; it was a calling, and she embraced it wholeheartedly.
Carol’s personality shone brightly throughout her life. She was known for her kindness, generous heart, and unwavering devotion to family and community.
In addition to her professional life, Carol had a zest for adventure. She cherished traveling and camping, often seeking new experiences and embracing nature’s beauty with delight. Her adventurous spirit allowed her to create countless memories that her family will hold dear forever.
Carol is survived by her daughters, Linda (Bruce) Gross of Charlotte, Lorie Brady of Battle Creek; grandson, Peter Seamus Emerson Brady; step-grandchildren, Leah Sleight, Sarah Brady, Josh Brady, Michael (Cyndi) Gross, Valorie Wilcock; and great-grandchildren, Ava, Aidan, and Abbi.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Emily (Pohl) Reid; husband, LaWayne; son-in-law, Peter Brady; and brothers, Dennis (June) Reid and Arthur Reid.
The family will receive friends on Sunday, December 21, 2025, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home. A private burial will take place at Bosworth Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contribution in Carol’s memory to the Food Bank of South Michigan www.smfoodbank.com
To view Carol’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Nedra Norene Coito
Nedra Norene Coito, a woman who was strong and faithful and very proud that she raised her family with strong values, died on Thursday, December 11, 2025. Nedra, 89, of Eaton Rapids and formerly of Charlotte, was born on October 2, 1936, in Weidman, Michigan, and was the daughter of Joseph and Nellie (Martin) Smith. After an early loss of her mother, Nedra was lovingly raised by her uncle and aunt, Russell and Thelma Upright. Her childhood challenges helped shape her strength, patience, and deep sense of faith.
A graduate of Charlotte High School, Nedra went to work for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services as a secretary, a career she proudly dedicated 31 years before her retirement.
On February 19, 1965, Nedra married Antionio Coito II, and together they spent the next 31 years creating many lasting memories before his passing in 1996. Nedra was a member of the International Egg Art Association for more than 40 years. She had a keen eye and was known for creating very elegant eggs. Nedra devoted her life to the Lord and was a member of the First Congregational Church in Charlotte, where she created prayer shawls for cancer survivors. She was also a lifetime member of the Nashville VFW Auxiliary and the Eaton Area Senior Center.
Nedra enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting, and—above all—spending time with her family. She was a woman of strong values, steady faith, and quiet resilience, and she was deeply proud to have raised her family with those same principles.
Nedra is survived by her children, Kari (Timothy) Vivoda and Lori (Susan) Coito; daughter-in-law, Carol Coito; grandchildren, Christopher (Amy Kohl) Arendt, Jessica Phenix, Sonny Coito, and Cody Coito; great-grandchildren, Hailey and Enzo; and sister, Cleone Miller. She was predeceased by her husband, Antionio Coito II; son, Antionio Coito III; siblings, Joyce Haigh, Martin Smith, and Allen Smith; her parents, uncle and aunt, Russel and Thelma Upright; cousins, Fay Upright and Marilyn Johnson, with whom she lived with and were like her brother and sister.
Friends are encouraged to support Nedra’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A memorial service was held on Friday, December 19, 2025, at noon at the First Congregational Church in Charlotte, with Pastor Adam Droscha officiating. Visitation will be held just prior to the service from 10 a.m. until noon. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to any hospice organization of your choice. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Bruce Ewald Milke
Bruce Ewald Milke, a man who would do anything for anyone, died unexpectedly on Saturday, December 13, 2025. Bruce, 84, of Charlotte, was born on October 3, 1941, in Lansing, the son of Ewald Milke and Marjory Milke-Scholl. Shortly after graduating from high school, Bruce enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he proudly served for two years during the Cuban Missile Crisis. From an early age Bruce began working with his father as a brick mason, a career that he loved and proudly worked on several jobs around Charlotte, MSU, and several other locations. He loved traveling around and showing his work to his children and family. Bruce was a proud member of the Charlotte Cruisers and enjoyed showing off his collection of Fords. He was a lifetime member of the American Legion, VFW, and Moose Lodge, where he enjoyed shooting pool and playing euchre. Bruce enjoyed watching sports and never missed a Michigan State game. Above all his proudest accomplishment in life was his family and the work ethic he instilled in them.
Bruce is survived by his sons, Bruce (Michelle) Milke II and Brian (Camille) Milke; step-daughter, Shannon (James) Washington; grandchildren, Bruce (Kaitlin) Milke III, Paige (Ryan) Mattox, Taylor (Aryn Melton-Coats) Milke, Mark (Cathy) Swebe, Kristen (James) Dorris, Garrett (Jasmyne Tran) Milke, and Brian Milke II; great-grandchildren, Cameron, Carter, Leo, Louie, Eli, Leona, Seamus, Haven, and London; special friend, Bill Hoople, who helped Bruce in so many ways; and many extended family members and friends. He was predeceased by his brothers, Andrew and Edmund “Butch” Milke, life companion, Darlene Finnie; father, Ewald Milke; and mother, Marjory (Paul) Scholl.
Friends are encouraged to support Bruce’s family by attending services or sharing memories on his Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation was Thursday, December 18, 2025, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home. Funeral services are Friday, December 19, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Peace Lutheran Church in Charlotte, with Pastor Dave Augenstein officiating. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to Danny’s Boys and Shirley’s Girls INC. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Alice Mae Schmuker
Alice Mae Schmuker, age 92, of Byron Center, MI, went to be with her Lord and Savior surrounded by family on Sunday, December 7, 2025. Alice was born November 12, 1933, the eldest of four children to Alois and Lillian Brown, in Conklin, MI, where she was later crowned Apple Queen.
After earning her RN degree from Mercy Central, she went on to work as a nurse anesthetist. She enjoyed being a member of the Mercy Nurse Honor Guard. Alice was a devoted and active charter member of St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church, involved in jail ministry, served as a CCD instructor, was instrumental in the Vietnamese refugee resettlement program, and participated in ministry trips, including Haiti where she personally met Mother Teresa.
An amazing achievement for Alice was participating in a 5k at 72 years old and winning first place in her age group. Alice was a colorful storyteller as well as a social person who enjoyed being involved not only in her church, but also in the lives of her family and in the community, which included volunteering as a member of MADD. A significant global achievement for Alice was traveling to the seven continents of the world. She received the United Nations Peace Medal for her work with foreign exchange students, including touring the Great Lakes. She and Darrell enjoyed being winter Texans on South Padre Island for many years.
Alice was preceded in death by her husband, Darrell Schmuker, and her brother, Robert Brown. Alice is lovingly remembered by her children, Joanne (Dan) Vanderstelt of Charlotte, MI, Dennis (Rita Garren) Schmuker of Morrison, CO, Stephen (Jean) Schmuker of Grand Rapids, MI, Michael Schmuker of Winter Springs, FL, James (Jamie) Schmuker of Marne, MI, Mary (Scott) Mahoney of Allendale, MI, Bernadette (Jim) Overby of Ensenada, Mexico, Gerald (Adrianna) Schmuker of Spring Lake, MI; 15 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren; brother, Gary Brown; sister, Kathleen (Duane) Perrin; many nieces and nephews; and a longtime friend, Mary Jo Verhulst.
Her family expresses special thanks to The Oaks at Byron Center and Emmanuel Hospice for the loving care provided to Alice and shown to them. Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 14, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Stroo Funeral Home, 1095 68th St SE, Grand Rapids, 49508, where the Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church, 1253 52nd St. SE, Kentwood, 49508, Monday, December 15, at 11a.m., with celebrant Fr. Peter Vu. Visitation will precede the service at church from 10 to 11 a.m. Entombment will be in Resurrection Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Alice may be made to Emmanuel Hospice, 401 Hall St SW, #263, Grand Rapids, MI 49503.
Mary Ellen Wolfe
Mary Ellen Wolfe
Mary Ellen Wolfe, peacefully departed this world on December 5, 2025, at the age of 87, at Creative Living One in Charlotte. She was born on May 27, 1938, in Nashville, Michigan. Mary lived a life full of richness and color, embracing every moment with an exuberance that defined her spirit.
As a devoted collector of antiques, she spent time attending auction sales hunting for treasures and wandering through local flea markets. The thrill of the chase was matched only by her fondness for shopping at Kohls!
Her love for the great outdoors led her to cherish the simplicity of camping and traveling. Sports held a special place in her heart. Especially, the Detroit Lions, Detroit Tigers and MSU Spartans. Among her cherished memories were the spirited debates, going out to breakfast, and golf cart rides on the country roads with her favorite son-in-law, David. Mary also enjoyed watching the birds as they visited her feeders.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Frances (Case) Shetenhelm; husband, Duane Wolfe; and step-daughter, Deborah Vega.
She is survived by her daughters, Jackie Janousek of Fowlerville, Judi (David) Lemon of Potterville; special son, Blane (Deb) White of Vermontville; granddaughter, Mardi (Sherman) Minor of Lansing; step-children, Judy (Richard) Parish of Eaton Rapids, Joyce (Rocky) Good of Kentwood, Daniel Wolfe of Nashville, Brenda (Steve Palacios) Swanson of Charlotte; and many additional grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were held on Monday, December 8, 2025, at 11 a.m. at the Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home with Pastor Jeff Nunham officiating. The family received friends on Monday just prior to the funeral. Burial will take place at Gresham Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Mary’s memory to the charity of their choice.
To view Mary’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family please visit www.burkhead-green-kilgo.com.
Mary Janice Morey
Mary Janice Morey, born on October 3, 1937, in Charlotte, Michigan, passed away on December 8, 2025, surrounded by her family. Mary lived a life filled with love and care, making her family the center of her world. She graduated from Charlotte High School in 1955, where she cultivated friendships that lasted a lifetime. On May 22, 1955, she married her high school sweetheart, Donald Clark II. Together they had a one son, Don. Donald passed away in 1958. Later she married Joseph C. Morey, on September 17, 1960. Together they had one son, Bill.
Throughout her journey, Mary enjoyed traveling with Joe, exploring the beauty of the country. Mary enjoyed raising her dogs and spending time with them. Her last dog was her beloved greyhound, Silkie. She found joy in tending to her yard and nursing her beautiful flower gardens, a true testament to her nurturing spirit. Mary also had a passion for collecting antique dolls and had a special fondness for cardinals. Disney World held a special place in her heart as a favorite destination.
Mary’s final moments were spent peacefully, surrounded by family. She created cherished memories with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who were the most important part of her life.
Mary is survived by her son, Don (Jan) Morey of Charlotte; daughter-in-law, Joni Morey of Middleville; grandchildren; Lydia (John) Haney of Charlotte, Dinah (Adam) Weststrate of Grand Ledge, Joanna Morey of Charlotte, Kari (Dustin) VonItter of Middleville, Joe W. (Kimberly) Morey of Middleville; and 13 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Dale K. and Ruth (Patterson) Williams; husbands, Donald Clark II and Joseph Morey; son, Bill Morey; brothers, Richard (Cheryl) Williams and D. Kent Williams.
A graveside service will be held on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Maple Hill Cemetery.
Those desiring may make contributions in Mary’s memory to St. Joseph’s Indian School, 1301 N. Main Street, Chamberlain, South Dakota 57325 or at www.stjo.org.
Burleigh DuWayne Wellman, Jr.
Burleigh DuWayne Wellman, Jr., 81, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Macon, Georgia his family moved to Charlotte, MI when he was 6 years old. He was a proud resident of Charlotte until he and his beloved wife retired to the sunlit shores of Seminole, Florida. He dedicated 35 faithful years to General Motors, retiring in 1998 as a skilled tradesman. He took pride in building some of the finest vehicles America ever produced.
In 1965 Burleigh met the love of his life, Marilyn and together they celebrated 58 wonderful years of marriage filled with laughter, devotion and countless memories. After retirement, they spent 20 joyful years in Seminole, Florida, where his days were happily spent golfing, dancing, spending time with family and friends and walking the beaches of the Gulf Coast searching for shells. Nothing brought him greater happiness then time with his grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife, Marilyn, two daughters, Kim (Ken) Schlee and Nikki (Bill) McLeod, four cherished grandchildren and their spouses, two great-grandchildren, a wide circle of nieces, nephews and friends who will miss his quick wit and warm heart. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, steadfast love and the simple truth that the best things in life are family, faith and a quiet evening on a Florida beach. Rest easy, Burleigh-you’ve earned it!
For online condolences please visit www.millsfuneral.com.
Sharon Elizabeth Cronk
Sharon Elizabeth Cronk, 80, of Charlotte, a devoted wife, mother, and friend, died December 5, 2025. Sharon was born November 3, 1945, in Charlotte, Michigan, to Donald and Mildred (Keith) Adams. Her life was defined by love, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to others. Ambitious by nature and a true perfectionist, she brought care and dedication to everything she did.
Sharon married Ardon Cronk in 1965, and together they created a warm and welcoming home. A hardworking stay-at-home mom for many years, she embodied the spirit of a “proverbial mother” — nurturing, dependable, and always ready to help. She often looked after friends’ children, made countless handmade gifts, and was known for always putting others first.
Sharon had many talents including gardening and canning, crocheting, knitting, making burp cloths and baby blankets, and creating beautiful wedding cakes for family members. She enjoyed snowmobiling, bowling on leagues, and had a passion for dancing, especially line dancing, country dancing, swing dancing, and even the country lambada, often at the Silver Dollar Saloon. Sharon also loved life on the water and confidently sailed a 25-foot O’Day out of Sutton’s Bay, and later she enjoyed the family pontoon on Lake Leelanau.
Sharon worked in several roles throughout her life. She drove a school bus for eight years, including for the girls’ track team; she worked preparing taxes for H&R Block; and worked in the A.E. office. Always active in her children’s activities, she proudly served and was very active as Band Booster President from 1984–85.
She and Ardon enjoyed wintering in Arizona and spending summers on Lake Leelanau, where they made many happy memories together. Through all of life’s seasons, Sharon remained loving, helpful, and generous. She was always creating, giving, and caring for those around her. Her kindness and devotion will be remembered by all who knew her.
Sharon is survived by her husband of 60 years, Ardon; son, Adam (Jennifer) Cronk; daughter, Elizabeth “Liz” (Bill) Hoople; seven grandchildren, Hannah, Katie, and Thomas Cronk, John Pacino, Annaka (JD Sommer) Pacino, Emily (Brad) Trombley, and Rachel (Neil) Walldroff; one great-grandchild, Easton Trombley; and her beloved Yorkie, Lucy. She was preceded in death by her parents; and brothers, Edwin, Larry, Robert, and Phillip Adams.
Friends are encouraged to support Sharon’s family by attending services or sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. Visitation is Friday, December 12, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral services are Saturday, December 13, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte with Laura Cooper officiating. The funeral will be webcast so you may watch it from any computer, smartphone, or mobile device that has internet access. Go to www.prayfuneral.com, click on Sharon’s tribute, then click on Photos and Videos from your computer (or Media from your smart phone). If desired the family suggests memorial contributions to the Siren Shelter or New Hope Pet Rescue. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.
Joel Allen Heintzelman
Joel Allen Heintzelman, age 77, or Eaton Rapids, MI, passed away, December 4, 2025, surrounded by his family and friends. Joel was born January 13, 1948, in Eaton Rapids, Michigan, the son of Keith and Vina Heintzelman.
A graduate of Eaton Rapids High School, Joel met and married the love of his life, Gay Peters. He was a Vietnam Veteran serving proudly in the United States Navy. After his service to his country, Joe and Gay moved back to Eaton Rapids to raise their family. Joe retired from General Motors after 34 years of service. He and his wife purchased a cottage at Duck Lake and were members of the Duck Lake Country Club for 35 years. Joe and his family spent many memorable years at Duck Lake creating memories for several generations of his family. An avid sportsman, Joe loved to hunt deer, turkey, small game and fish the lakes and streams of Michigan. He spent 14 years going to Canada for fly in fishing trips with his son and friends. The memories of these trips were never forgotten. His life was full of great memories, fantastic friends and loving family. The most important thing in his life was his family. The love and support he gave his family will never be forgotten. If you were a part of his family and friend group, he would do absolutely anything for you with no questions asked.
Joe was preceded in death by his loving wife, Gay Ann Peters; his love for her never faded; mother and father, Keith and Vina Heintzelman; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Carl and Marilyn Peters; nephew, Jeff Heintzelman and half-brother, Doug Martin.
He is survived by his loving children, Craig (Debra Parsons) Heintzelman and Wendy (Scott) Whipple; brother, Keith (Bonnie) Heintzelman; grandchildren, Lilly (DaCoda) Whalen, Carly (Nick Schillerstrom) Whipple and Rachel Heintzelman; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Michael (Julie Reddy) Peters, Carol Peters, Steven (Teresa) Peters and Irene (Greg) Meyers; nephews, Eric (Nicole) Heintzelman, Troy (Kristi) Heintzelman, Edgerton (Monica) Peters, Calach (Lindsay) Peters, Andy Peters and Christopher Peters. Also surviving are many close friends and extended family.
Funeral services were held on Monday, December 8, 2025, 11 a.m. at Skinner Funeral Home in Eaton Rapids, MI, with Chaplain Steve Ezop officiating. Interment will follow at Brickyard Cemetery in Eaton Rapids. The family received relatives and friends, Sunday, December 7, 2025, from 2-5 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Pancreatic Cancer Foundation or Huron Humane Society in memory of Joe.